Bioscreen Testing Fact Sheet
Bioscreen tests can help identify an imbalance in gut flora that causes health problems. People who experience digestive issues, including abdominal bloating, diarrhea, constipation, and bad breath can have impaired intestinal function. Bioscreen testing is a non-invasive way to discover problems that lower quality of life. The tests are accredited with Australia’s National Association of Testing Authorities and the Royal Australasian College of Pathologists.
Overview of the Tests
Bioscreen testing includes diagnostic tests to measure aerobes and anaerobes, which are two significant bacteria groups. If a person has too much or too little bacteria in their gut, they could experience gastrointestinal issues. The tests also examine yeasts in the colon and amino acids in the urine and feces.
The intestinal tract needs some healthy bacteria to assist with digestive function. A healthy digestive system absorbs and metabolizes nutrients in an optimal manner that keeps people healthy. Any imbalance in the gut’s natural flora or in certain amino acids hurts the body. Bioscreen testing looks at these amino acids and flora to see if a person’s ranges are in the healthy level. People with conditions such as autism and chronic fatigue syndrome often have abnormal amino acid amounts in their stool. Variances in bacteria levels are associated with these conditions as well as gastrointestinal and fatigue disorders.
One of the bioscreen tests is called the Urinary Amino Acid Analysis. This screening test gives a biochemistry report that a person can show their doctor for further testing if results are abnormal. The report reveals whether amino acids and their derivatives are not within ideal ranges, which could lead to a diagnosis of a treatable condition.
Another test examines a stool sample instead of urine. This test is called the Faecal Microbial Analysis. It measures bacteria and yeast in the stool. Using the two tests together gives the most complete picture of gut health. The results of the test may lead to treatment protocols that enhance quality of life, especially for aging populations.
A third test is the Complete Digestive Stool Analysis. This test reveals parasites, bacteria, microbial flora, and yeasts.
How is it done?
People fill out a symptom questionnaire and take a sample of their urine or fecal matter to send in for testing. The bioscreen test kit includes the container to collect samples and all materials. The kits come with everything people need to send the samples, including packaging designed to maintain the correct temperature and protect the samples.
After sending in the samples, people get a copy of their report sent back. A copy may be sent to doctors as well.
Who Does It?
People collect their own samples and send them to labs for testing.
Cost?
Presently the Urinary Amino Acid Analysis costs $266. The Faecal Microbial Analysis also costs $266, though a retest within 12 months is only $139. The Complete Digestive Stool Analysis has five levels of tests and differing prices.
Issues
The bioscreen tests are only available in Australia.
References
Last reviewed 26/Feb/2014
